defection

noun

de·​fec·​tion di-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce defection (audio)
Synonyms of defectionnext
: conscious abandonment of allegiance or duty (as to a person, cause, or doctrine) : desertion

Examples of defection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the Grammys came amidst a jarring number of images and videos of the killings in Minneapolis, violent defections of peaceful anti-ICE protests across the country. José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 7 Feb. 2026 Such defections are typical, according to S&P Global, which reports that many people then choose vehicles with similar or higher prices. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 5 Feb. 2026 House Speaker Mike Johnson could only spare one Republican defection in advancing a government spending bill to end the latest partial four-day government shutdown. Zac Anderson, USA Today, 3 Feb. 2026 With Republicans threatening defections and Democrats refusing to provide procedural help, Johnson turned to the White House. Nik Popli, Time, 3 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defection

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin dēfectiōn-, dēfectiō "falling short, failure, abandonment of allegiance," from dēficere "to be lacking, fail, become disaffected, go over (to the side of an opponent)" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at deficient

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defection was in 1532

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Defection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defection. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on defection

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster